West Yorkshire Police put on a large-scale policing operation to maintain public safety and minimise disruption during protests in Leeds city centre today (April 25).
Three demonstrations, which are understood to be organised by UKIP and the Yorkshire Patriots, Stand Up To Racism and the Palestine Solidarity Campaign, took place from around midday.
Police confirmed protests should be finished by around 3pm.
Additional police powers were put in place during static protests in City Square and Victoria Gardens and marches around the city centre.
No major incidents
Despite six arrests, mostly on suspicion of breaching Section 14 of the Public Order Act in relation to the protest groups staying in an agreed location, the force has confirmed the policing has concluded without any serious incidents.
There were no reports of any injuries or any incidents of disorder.
Those arrested remain in custody and enquiries are ongoing.
Main priority was keeping people safe
Assistant Chief Constable Damien Miller, who led the operation, said: “Our main priority today was to keep people safe and balance the rights of those who wished to protest with the rights of those visiting, working or living in the city centre.
“That aim was successfully achieved through careful planning and preparation, alongside our partner agencies, and the strategic deployment of officers on the ground to manage the impact of these events throughout the day.
“Although there were a small number of arrests, this was completely in line with what we would expect for an event of this nature, and we hope the people of Leeds can be suitably reassured of our ability to deal effectively with events such as this, ensuring public safety and keeping disruption to a minimum.”